10 Popsicle Recipes That Are Healthier Than Smoothies

There’s something so fun and nostalgic about popsicles. The store-bought ones are often loaded with sugar, but it’s so easy to make them yourself, and then you control the ingredients. We sought out popsicle recipes that are simple and delicious, mostly made of fruit and vegetables and little or no added sugar — but that also feel fun and festive, like the treat they are.

Although these healthy popsicle recipes will take you right back to childhood, they’re also so nutrient-packed, they may be even healthier than smoothies. So if you felt like having one for breakfast, we definitely wouldn’t judge. (And, if you have kids, you know they will definitely get behind breakfast popsicles.)

Grab your ice pop molds and get ready to enjoy your new favorite way to get those servings of fruit and veggies.

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1. Rainbow Popsicles

With these popsicles’ colorful 7 layers, you’ll literally be eating the rainbow (plus some Greek yogurt for a bit of protein). They require a little extra work than standard popsicle recipes, but this one yields 30+ pops, so you’ll be set for a while. Plus, they’re perfect to show off on your socials.

Try this recipe from The First Year.

2. Green Smoothie Popsicles

These smoothie pops, made with electrolyte-rich coconut water, orange juice, baby spinach, bananas, pineapple, and ginger, are a delicious way to sneak extra greens into your diet. The recipe was developed with kids in mind, but they’re definitely great for adults, too. 

Try this recipe from As Easy As Apple Pie.

3. Fresh Fruit Popsicles

Our favorite thing about this recipe? No blender required. Pack as much fruit as you can into the popsicle molds and fill with your favorite fruit juice or tea, then freeze. It doesn’t get any easier than this. Plus, they’re a perfect way to use up any fruit that’s misshapen or on its way out.

Try this recipe from One Little Project.

4. Strawberry Yogurt Popsicles with Granola

This popsicle recipe is like eating a bowl of yogurt and strawberries with granola, but even better. There’s zero added sugar and they’re also high in protein, thanks to Greek yogurt. Swap in blueberries, raspberries, or a combo, if you like.

Try this recipe from Jessica Gavin.

5. Blueberry Apple Popsicles

This two-ingredient recipe (we repeat, two ingredients!) is such a good way to use up a large bounty of blueberries. This delicious and refreshing treat is also full of vitamin C and antioxidants. We’d add a pinch of salt just to brighten the fruit flavor.

Try this recipe from Vegan in the Freezer.

6. Banana-Peanut Butter Popsicles

Bananas and peanut butter are a classic combo, and these creamy popsicles make the most of it. With fiber-rich avocado and a touch of cocoa powder, they’re a sure crowd-pleaser, and they’re free of added sugar, too. 

Try this recipe from Homemade & Yummy.

7. Mango Popsicles

Fly off to the tropics right in your own kitchen with these four-ingredient, super-refreshing popsicles. We love the tangy lime in these to offset the sweet mango. If you like some heat, blend in a few shakes of Tajin, or dip the outsides in the chili-lime spice mix before eating.

Try this recipe from Maple and Mango.

8. Strawberry Yogurt Popsicles

Just strawberries, Greek yogurt, and honey — this 3-ingredient recipe is simple and classic. You can also modify it to suit your taste: Use a different berry (or a combo), add some fresh basil or a splash of vanilla, or swap a little of the yogurt for some fresh orange juice.  

Try this recipe from Little Broken.

9. Creamy Peach and Honey Popsicles

Take the extra step of roasting the peaches to make these popsicles — we promise, it’s totally worth it. Roasting the peaches reduces their water content and concentrates their flavor, so your ice pops are bursting with deep peach flavor. 

Try this recipe from Cookie + Kate.

10. Avocado Fudgesicles

If a treat just has to have chocolate (we get it!), here’s the perfect healthy popsicle for you. With avocado, cacao powder, and maple syrup, it’s decadent and rich, but still loaded with good nutrition. Plus, they’re vegan and free of both nuts and gluten, so just about anyone can enjoy them.

Try this recipe from Detoxinista.

Read next: 8 Diabetic Desserts Low in Sugar But Still Super Tasty

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